Malacañang has allowed government officials to travel to Taiwan for economic and trade-related purposes, provided they observe strict protocols and limitations.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 82, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on April 15, restrictions on travel to Taiwan and contact with representatives shall strictly apply to the President, Vice President, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and Secretary of National Defense.

It introduced a change from previous restrictions by allowing government officials to visit Taiwan to promote trade, investment, and economic cooperation, including in the areas of tourism, science and technology, and education.

However, these visits must be unofficial as the memorandum requires them to use ordinary passports, without bearing official titles, and "with the understanding that such travel does not constitute official interaction with the Taiwan authorities."

Officials undertaking such travel must coordinate with the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) and submit a post-activity report to both MECO and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

The circular also sets conditions for receiving delegations from Taiwan, stating that "Philippine Government agencies may receive Taiwan delegations to promote trade, investment and economic cooperation, provided that they notify MECO of such visits at least five (5) days prior."

Agencies receiving such delegations are required to submit a report to MECO and the DFA within 15 days after the visit.

The memorandum reiterates the need for DFA clearance before entering into any written agreements with Taiwan.

"No memorandum of understanding, exchange of letters or notes, or any similar instruments may be signed by any Philippine government agency with any Taiwan counterpart or entity, without the requisite clearance from the DFA," it read.

The new guidelines take effect immediately and are "without prejudice to the issuance of subsequent directives and guidelines by the Office of the President and the DFA."